Why Do Cats Purr?

While purring is often associated with a cat’s contentment, such as when they are being petted or snuggled up in a cozy spot, it can also occur in less happy circumstances. Cats may purr when they are frightened, in pain, or when they are sick. This suggests that purring might serve as a self-soothing mechanism, helping cats to calm themselves in stressful situations. It is a bit like how humans might hum when they are nervous or upset.

Purring is a fascinating vocal feature that occurs while cats inhale and exhale. This unique sound is believed to originate from the laryngeal muscles in the throat. This mechanism allows the vocal cords to vibrate at low frequencies, creating the soothing sound we associate with a happy cat. Interestingly, this ability is shared by domestic cats and other members of the Felinae subfamily, including cougars and bobcats, but not by their roaring relatives, lions and tigers.